Freeze A Batch Of Mashed Potatoes For All Your Holiday Parties

For best results freezing mashed potatoes, don't skimp on the fat

Potatoes contain a significant amount of water, which can make freezing them tricky, often resulting in undesirable textures. Fortunately, mashed potatoes freeze quite well if you follow the right steps. Opt for starchy potatoes instead of waxy ones, as they have lower moisture levels. Make sure to cook them thoroughly before mashing to avoid a mushy, freezer-burned outcome.

Incorporating fatty ingredients is crucial for preserving the creamy texture of the dish rather than making it watery. When preparing your potatoes for freezing, don’t hold back on the butter and cream. Be generous with these rich components—they will help keep your mashed potatoes smooth and cohesive without becoming gluey or sticky from excess moisture. To prevent ice crystals from forming on your frozen dish, cover the surface of the mashed potatoes with a layer of water-resistant parchment or wax paper, then seal them tightly to create an airtight environment. For added protection, wrap the container in several layers of plastic wrap.

How to reheat your potatoes like a make-ahead meal pro

When preparing a couple of batches of mashed potatoes in advance of the holiday season, it's important to first consider the occasions and specific gatherings where you'll be serving them. This will help you determine the right quantities and storage methods tailored to your plans. This way, you won’t find yourself in a panic trying to figure out how much mashed potatoes you need for 10 hungry guests when you take your dish out of the freezer.

If you prefer to reheat your mashed potatoes conveniently in the microwave, store them in a microwave-safe bowl with a tight-fitting lid. Thaw the dish and heat it in short intervals. If you anticipate having oven space to warm your mashed potatoes, use a casserole dish that can serve a crowd — consider adding some pats of butter (or even cheese) on top before freezing, so it melts into the potatoes as they heat up. For stovetop reheating, place your mashed potatoes in well-sealed freezer bags, either in smaller portions or larger quantities, and then transfer what you need to a saucepan.

Regardless of the reheating method you select, it’s often beneficial to mix in extra butter and cream while stirring the mashed potatoes as they warm. Season with salt and pepper, and finish with a sprinkle of fresh chopped parsley or scallions. Most importantly, take a moment to relax and savor the rewards of your holiday meal prep. And by rewards, we mean those creamy, buttery mashed potatoes.